Roasted Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb Recipe

I love a slow-cooked rack of lamb. I usually go to my favorite steakhouse to order it, but I decided to try making it at home for a special occasion. The key is in the marinade to get really tender meat. I let the lamb racks marinate in the mixture for a few hours before cooking; it is even better if left overnight.

If you are cooking a rack of lamb for the first time, you only need a few ingredients: lamb racks, garlic, honey, dried rosemary, soy sauce, and water.

The benefits of this recipe are that it is hands-off cooking using simple ingredients, and it cooks in one pot. You can also use the sauce as a jus. This decadent dish will become a weeknight dinner favorite.

Ingredients Overview for Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb

Lamb Racks

The lamb racks work well in this recipe because they are a leaner cut of meat and the soy sauce, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper help to keep them moist and flavorful.

Garlic

Garlic adds a familiar flavor and helps to keep the lamb racks moist.

Garlic has also been shown to have some health benefits. Some of these benefits include reducing the risk of heart disease, improving blood circulation, and helping to fight off infection.

Honey

Honey adds sweetness and helps to balance out the savory flavors of the soy sauce and garlic.

Honey is a sweetener that is derived from the nectar of flowers. Used for centuries as a natural sweetener and remedy. Honey has many health benefits that include reducing the risk of heart disease, improving blood circulation, and helping to fight off infection.

Dried Rosemary

Rosemary adds flavor and helps to keep the lamb racks moist. Rosemary has also been shown to have some health benefits. Some of these benefits include improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and helping to fight off infection.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami flavor that complements the sweetness of honey. Soy sauce is also a good source of protein. Soy sauce has many health benefits that include reducing the risk of heart disease, improving blood circulation, and helping to fight off infection.

Water

Water is used in this recipe to thin out the marinade and prevent the marinade and crust of the lamb from burning.

Substitutions

Racks of lamb can be expensive or hard to get. As a substitute, you could use other cuts of lamb like leg of lamb, lamb shoulder, lamb shanks, or lamb chops. You will have to adjust the cooking time to suit the size of the cuts.

If you’re not a fan of lamb or the lamb rack is unavailable at your local butcher, you can substitute it for beef or pork.

Beef is a good replacement for lamb because it is a similarly lean cut of meat, slow cooking makes it tender and it also benefits from the flavors of the marinade.

Although pork is white-fleshed meat it is not delicate and its texture mirrors lamb and beef. It is a lean cut of meat and the flavors of soy sauce, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper only enhance this meat’s flavor.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, this is the perfect recipe to try substituting tofu. Tofu is a great vegetarian protein that soaks up flavors well. The key to making a successful tofu substitution is to make sure that you press the tofu before marinating it. This will help the tofu to absorb the flavors of the marinade better.

There are many other options for substitutions in this recipe. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute tamari for soy sauce. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, you can substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce.

Fresh garlic cloves are best. If you don’t have any on-hand, garlic powder will work just as well.

The options are endless, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions asked about slow-cooking lamb.

Can I slow cook a rack of lamb?

Yes, you can! The lamb racks are marinated, which allows the flavors of the ingredients to soak into the meat. The lamb is then cooked in a slow cooker on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours. You can then finish it off by crisping it up in the oven if you like.

Can you overcook lamb in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can overcook lamb in a slow cooker. If you cook the lamb for too long, it will become tough and dry. To avoid overcooking, make sure to follow the recipe directions carefully and check on the lamb regularly. If the lamb begins to look overcooked, remove it from the slow cooker.

Do you have to brown lamb before slow cooking?

You don’t have to brown lamb before slow cooking, but it can help to create a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still create a delicious meal.

What temperature should I slow cook my rack of lamb?

The lamb should be slow-cooked on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours.

Want more information about slow cooker temperatures? My article deep dives into slow cooker and crockpot temperatures

What should I serve with a Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb?

The options are endless, but some ideas include mashed potatoes, green beans, carrots, and roasted Brussels sprouts. You could also serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa. Finish it off with a drizzle of the Jus (the juices from the slow cooker), and you’re good to go!

Can I cook the lamb in the oven?

Yes, you can cook the lamb in the oven. You will need to preheat the oven to the correct temperature and then cook the lamb for the appropriate amount of time. Check your recipe for cooking instructions can cook time to determine the best way to cook your lamb.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use a different cut of meat if you prefer. Beef or pork are great substitutes for lamb.

Can I use a different type of soy sauce?

Yes, you can use a different type of soy sauce if you prefer. Tamari is a great gluten-free option.

Wrapping Up: Slow Cooker Rack of Lamb

This easy rack of lamb recipe turns a roasting piece of raw lamb into a meal perfect for a dinner party or colder winter days. The mouth waters as your healthy yet delicious dinner simmers away all day.

The lamb racks are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and rosemary. This allows the flavors of the ingredients to soak into the meat. The lamb is then cooked in a slow cooker on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours.

You can then finish it off by crisping it up in the oven if you like. Serve with your favorite sides and a glass of red wine, and enjoy!

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